VOLLEYBALL 2021 The West Central Tribune’s guide to the 2021 volleyball season
Willmar looks strong......................................................... strong.........................................................R2-R3 R2-R3 NLS rebuilds.................................................................................... rebuilds.................................................................................... R4 BBE a state contender. contender........................................................... R10
Set your goals high, and don’t stop till you get there.
Wishing all area teams the best of luck this season! Play hard and have fun!
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VOLLEYBALL 2021
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INDEX:
Willmar’s Sydney Schnichels (2) goes up to take a swing at the ball during the first set of a Central Lakes Conference match against Fergus Falls on Monday, Nov. 22, 2020 at the Big Red Gym at Willmar High School.
Here’s where to find your season previews: R2-3................................Willmar Cardinals R4...........New London-Spicer Wildcats R5................................... Litchfield Dragons R6...........................................Benson Braves R7............................................BOLD Warriors R8................................Minnewaska Lakers R9.............Montevideo Thunder Hawks R10............................................ACGC Falcons R10...............................................BBE Jaguars R11.............................Paynesville Bulldogs R12.........................................CMCS Bluejays R13..................Dawson-Boyd Blackjacks R14.............................KMS Fighting Saints R15..............Lac qui Parle Valley Eagles R16.......................... MACCRAY Wolverines R17........Renville County West Jaguars R18..............Yellow Medicine East Sting R19........................................... Area Sections
Joe Brown / West Central Tribune
ON THE COVER:
Willmar sophomore outside hitter Sydney Schnichels collects a dig during a Central Lakes Conference match against Alexandria on Oct. 27, 2020 from Willmar High School. Willmar is ranked third in the state in Class AAA and Schnichels is one of the state's top players. Patrick Bernadeau West Central Tribune
Good Luck to all the ACGC students!
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Cards have high expectations Willmar, ranked third in the state in Class AAA, is led by new coach Leah Ruter, a ‘15 grad BY JOE BROWN West Central Tribune
WILLMAR — After winning the Central Lakes Conference for the third time in four years, the Willmar Cardinals will look to keep up their recent success under new head coach Leah Ruter. Ruter, a 2015 Willmar High School graduate, takes over for Traci Grussing. Grussing coached the Cardinals from 2012-20 and was Ruter’s highschool coach when she was an All-CLC selection in 2014. “All of the girls have worked really hard this week and are having fun,” Ruter said at the end of the team’s first week
of practice. “I am excited to be coaching at my alma mater and excited for the future of the program.” In her first season, Ruter will try to replace five key players from last season’s 13-1 team (12-0 CLC): Abby Stark, Bailey Olson, Madelyn Gregory, Sophie Kobienia and Callie Slagter. Stark, a libero, was a Class AAA All-State selection, an All-CLC selection and an All-Area first teamer. Olson was also picked All-CLC and was an All-Area honorable mention. With three starters back from 2020, the Cardinals will have
WILLMAR: Page 3
Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Willmar junior middle hitter Mackenzie Knofczynski tips a free ball over the net during Tuesday's Central Lakes Conference match against Alexandria from Willmar High School.
VOLLEYBALL 2021
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some high-end firepower. Moving the ball around on offense will be 5-foot-7 senior setter Lydia Larson. An All-CLC and first team AllArea pick, Larson finished with 478 set assists, which led the state according to the MN Volleyball Hub. She also had 108 digs and 19 ace serves. Following her high-school career, Larson will play collegiately at The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina. She will be the third straight Division I setter from Willmar, joining Carly Wedel (South Dakota State) and Esther Grussing (Ball State). Another All-CLC and All-Area pick will be back at outside hitter in 6-4 junior Sydney Schnichels. Sporting a .322 hitting percentage, Schnichels finished 2020 with 156 kills. During the offseason, Schnichels was invited to play in the U17 USA Volleyball National Team Development Program in Anaheim, California. At middle hitter, 6-foot senior Mackenzie Knofczynski is another returning starter. A captain
along with Larson, Knofczynski recorded 68 kills with a .318 hitting percentage last season. Senior Marissa Rosen will also return to the rotation at outside hitter. On the right side, senior Bella Mulder will try to give the Cardinals another weapon after having to sit out last year due to transfer rules. Expectations will be high for this year’s Willmar squad. They come into the season ranked third in Class AAA in the Minnesota Volleyball Coaches Association’s preseason poll released on July 28. Willmar will open this season against one of the state’s top programs with a Aug. 26 road matchup against Marshall. The Tigers are ranked No. 1 in the preseason poll. With Minnesota moving volleyball from three classes to four, it will also give the Cardinals a chance to see a top contender in the new-look Section 2AAA. Along with Willmar and Marshall, other teams in 2AAA include: Hutchinson; Mankato East; Mankato West; New Ulm; St. Peter; and Worthington.
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Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Willmar junior setter Lydia Larson sets up a teammate during a Central Lakes Conference match against Sartell on Oct. 12, 2020 from Willmar High School.
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VOLLEYBALL 2021
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New London-Spicer’s Ellary Peterson (7) takes a swing against the Rockford block in a Wright County Conference match on Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2020 in New London.
Joe Brown / West Central Tribune
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NEW LONDON — If New London-Spicer volleyball hopes to stay at the top of the Wright County Conference West Division, it’ll be to be with a new cast of players. The Wildcats will look to replace their setter, both outside hitters, both right-side hitters, a middle hitter and a libero in 2021.
“We graduated almost our entire starting lineup,” said NLS head coach Erin Schoumaker, who is 93-64 in six seasons with the team. “We will be rebuilding at all positions. We’re currently doing tryouts and hope some of the girls new to varsity volleyball step up and become valuable players.” Two players from the Wildcats’ rotation in 2020 are back in the fold.
There’s Nyla Johnson, a senior setter. Splitting time with outgoing Emma Hanson, Johnson led NLS with 237 set assists with just eight errors. She also had 117 digs and six ace serves. Also at the net, junior Ellary Peterson returns to anchor the team’s defense as a middle blocker. Last season, Peterson recorded 32 blocks, ranking third on the team. She also tallied 44 digs, 34 kills and nine ace serves. NLS is also hoping for a strong return from Olivia Mages. The
senior middle hitter is returning from an injury that kept her out of the entire 2020 season. In 2020, the Wildcats took second in the Wright County West for the second straight year, going 9-3. After finishing 12-15 in 2018, NLS is a combined 36-6. The 2021 season will get underway for the Wildcats on Aug. 27 when they play a tournament at Albany. The home opener is Aug. 31 against Morris Area/Chokio-Alberta.
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Lots of holes to fill for Dragons Litchfield loses five all-conference players from 9-5 team mentions in middle hitter Rachel Foley, libero Kamri West Central Tribune Driver and outside hitter LITCHFIELD — The Litchfield Dragons will try Lily Osterberg. “Losing eight seniors to replace eight players — is going to give a lot of including five All-Wright players an opportunity to County Conference step up and build off of honorees — when the last season’s success,” said season gets underway. Dragons head coach Darin Going 9-5 in 2020 for Swenson, who heads into a third-place finish in the Wright County West, his 17th season with a Litchfield will try to replace 229-214 career record. two All-WCC players in “We’re looking to use outside hitter Sydney the early season to settle McCann and setter Kristin into a new system with Foley. The team also lost DRAGONS: Page 19 three All-WCC honorable
BY JOE BROWN
Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Litchfield sophomore right-side hitter Greta Hansen hits the ball over the net during a Wright County Conference match against Watertown-Mayer on Monday, Nov. 16, 2020 from Litchfield High School.
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VOLLEYBALL 2021
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New coach and lots of new faces at Benson Braves return one starter for new head coach Laura Mitteness BY MATTHEW CURRY West Central Tribune
BENSON — With a new coach and key losses from last season, the Benson Braves will be starting fresh. After nine years of coaching the Braves and 20 overall, Shannon Schmidt retired. . Laura Mitteness, a former assistant coach to Schmidt, takes over as head coach. Abby Ver Steeg and Mackenzie Dokkebakken will be the assistant coaches. Benson will be without players Kimmy Pagel (who led the team with 18 blocks 43 kills), Rachel Berens, Sarah Brandt, Beth Cain (who led the team with 180 digs), Ellie Moesenthin (team leader with 151 set assists), Marissa Connelly and Zoe Doscher (who led the team with 29 service aces). Adysen Himley, a 5-foot-9 senior setter, will be one of three returning players and the only starter. Himley averaged 2.4 assists per set and finished the season second in assists with 99. “(Himley) will be one to watch for as a setter and attacker,” Mitteness said. “She is an all-around smart player and will highly contribute to the team during the Braves’ 2021 volleyball season.” Lilly Slaughter, the 5-7 junior, also returns. Slaughter finished last season with 24 digs, six aces and held a serving percentage of 89.2%. “(Slaughter) will be strong on defense, servereceive, and in the front row,” Mittness said. Mitteness is confident about the upcoming season. “With only three girls returning, we have many athletes, seniors and juniors who are ready to fill in roles and be competitive and successful,” she said. “Our team looks forward to this year.” Benson opens the season on Thursday, Aug. 26 at home against Lac qui Parle Valley.
Adysen Himley (9) and the rest of the Benson volleyball team celebrates after scoring a point in a West Central Conference match against BOLD on Oct. 27, 2020 in Olivia. Benson’s Libby McGeary lobs the ball to the other side of the court for a set attempt during a West Central Conference match against BOLD on Oct. 27, 2020 at Olivia. Photos by Joe Brown West Central Tribune
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BOLD hopes to build off its ‘20 successes Seven starters return, including Leslie Snow, Caylee Weber and Abby Meyers “She is a smart player, always looking to make the play in the West Central Tribune most efficient way,” Kubesch said. OLIVIA — With seven starters “(She’s a) great defensive player returning, BOLD head coach as well. She is a natural and smart Baylie Kubesh hopes to build off volleyball player. … of last season’s 5-5 record. It was “She is someone we will look for Kubesh’s first as head coach. at all spots on the floor. We are Kubesch and assistants Lexie looking for her to be a big leader Scott and Malissa Everson welcome back seniors Leslie Snow, for us this upcoming season.” Weber, an outside/right-side Caylee Weber and Abby Meyers, juniors Mari Ryberg and Kilee hitter, had 75 kills, 12 ace serves, Elfering and sophomores Delaney 10 blocks and 40 digs last season. Tersteeg and Kenzie Visser. “Caylee is a very versatile Snow, an outside hitter, had 97 player,” Kubesh said. Ryberg, a middle blocker, had Joe Brown / West Central Tribune kills, 19 ace serves and 108 digs BOLD’s Leslie Snow (left) hits over Benson blockers Sarah Brandt (3) and Ellie Moesenthin during a West last season. She has 345 kills and Central Conference match on Tuesday, Oct. 27, 2021 in Olivia. BOLD: Page 19 399 digs in her career.
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VOLLEYBALL 2021
Lakers look to their super sophs With one senior, Minnewaska will have a young lineup BY JOE BROWN West Central Tribune
GLENWOOD — When the Minnewaska volleyball team takes the court this fall, the Lakers will have one senior helping the rest of the young squad get up to speed. Fresh off a 6-5 showing in 2020, the Lakers will have to replace key contributors like Avery Hoeper, Kristen Glover, MaKena Panitzke and Brecklyn Beyer. “We are a team led with a lone senior,” said Minnewaska head coach Michele Johnson, “and the majority will be made up of sophomores who will be working on improving our defense and aggressive serving.” That solo senior will be middle blocker Brooklyn Larson. Last year, she tallied 47 kills along with 17 digs and nine blocks. The Lakers also have a trio of juniors in right-side hitter Noa Breckworth, along with defensive specialists Lilly Engebretson and Mikalyn Andreas. Sophomores are the most represented class for Minnewaska with seven players. Among those sophomores is Haley Shea, who’ll resume setting duties for the Lakers. In 2020, Shea had a team-best 129 set assists along with 53 digs on the defensive end. Other sophomores looking for extended roles this fall are outside hitter/defensive specialist Avery Fier and middle blocker Dreya Barsness. Fier was a team leader in the back row in 2020 with a Laker-best 186 digs. Barsness came up with 28 kills, 52 digs and 10 ace serves last year. Minnewaska will get the 2021 season underway on Aug. 31 at home with a nonconference contest against Eden Valley-Watkins.
Eric Morken / Alexandria Echo Press
Minnewaska junior Brooklyn Larson puts down a kill attempt against Osakis’ Hayleigh Niehoff on Monday, Nov. 16, 2020.
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VOLLEYBALL 2021
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Thunder Hawks have hope for strong season Dominant middle hitter Avery Koenen leads Montevideo BY JOE BROWN West Central Tribune
MONTEVIDEO — Looking for the school’s first winning season since 2017, the Montevideo volleyball team hopes to take a leap this fall. Going 2-4 in the COVID-19 shortened season, the Thunder Hawks return a key offensive weapon in junior Avery Koenen. Koenen is a 6-foot2 middle hitter. She’ll look to replace outside hitters Livia Gades, Lexi Brockmoller and Cali Molde along with middle hitter Meg Anderson and right-side hitter Jaysa Herfendal. The Thunder Hawks will also look to replace a pair of defensive specialists in Megan Stueck and Alondra Villareal. “After graduating a large starting class from 2020, we hope to build a strong squad around Avery Koenen, who had a standout year last year and got even better in the off-season,” said Montevideo head coach Ashley Palmer. “(Koenen’s) height, volleyball knowledge, attitude and strength will help guide our team on and off the court.” Facilitating the offense is another returning starter in 5-9 setter Tenley Epema. Hoping to fill other
Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Montevideo sophomore middle hitter Avery Koenen delivers an attack during a West Central Conference match against Melrose on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020 from Montevideo High School.
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Montevideo sophomore setter Tenley Epema serves during a West Central Conference match against Melrose on Friday, Nov. 13, 2020 from Montevideo High School.
spots on the offense, Montevideo is looking at a pair of sophomores to give the team a boost. In the middle is 5-9 Jenessa Berg. At outside hitter, 5-7 Avery Williams will be in the mix. “Avery (Williams) comes off an ACL injury but has a lot of competitive JO experience, has a high
volleyball IQ and will help this year’s varsity squad,” Palmer said. “Jenessa Berg will hopefully fill one of the many hitting holes left by the graduating class.” Montevideo opens the season with a nonconference game at home on Aug. 26 against Redwood Valley.
Best of luck to all the area 2021 Fall Sports Teams!!
VOLLEYBALL 2021
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Five seniors will lead the Falcons ACGC hopes to improve upon a winless 2020 season BY MATTHEW CURRY West Central Tribune
GROVE CITY — Atwater-Cosmos-Grove City prepares for the coming season with five seniors returning. Falcons head coach Jamie Mootz returns for her fourth season along with co-head coach Shawna Roemeling, who is in her second season. Returning seniors for the Falcons are outside hitter Erin Roemeling, hitter Myli Narragon, middle hitter and setter Laela Werner, outside hitter Liberty Jans and defensive specialist Madyson Sandstrom. Along with the seniors, the Falcons look to underclassmen returners in Eli Roemeling, Mikaili Johnson, Haley Wilner, Kylie Blom, Giselle Grahn, Grace Kaehler, Claire Slinden and Taylor Hoekstra. “The Falcons are excited to be back in the gym and working hard to prepare for the upcoming season,” Mootz said. ACGC went 0-8 last season with all its losses by 3-0 scores. The Falcons believe there is nowhere to go but up. They open their season Friday, Aug. 27 at the Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted tournament.
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BBE libero Emily Kern begins her serve during a Central BBE’s Ava Mueller lobs a ball toward the net during a Central Minnesota Conference match against Paynesville on Oct. 13, Minnesota Conference match against Paynesville on Oct. 13, 2020 in Brooten. 2020 in Brooten.
BBE has high hopes for 2021 Jaguars are a pre-season top 10 in the state rankings
secure is in the back row with senior libero Emily Kern. A Class A All-State second teamer last fall, Kern has 1,261 Jaguars will return seven BY JOE BROWN career digs. A two-time key contributors from a West Central Tribune All-Central Minnesota year ago. BROOTEN — After Conference honoree (2nd BBE will also have back-to-back state trips team in ‘20; 1st team in co-head coaches this year. in 2018 and ‘19, along ‘19), Kern is committed with a 9-1 record in 2020, Alanna Hunter, who took to play collegiately at St. over in ‘20, returns to Cloud State. Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa the bench. Joining her is “Emily is a very is hoping to be a state Tiffany Breitbach, who will passionate player,” contender once again. fill in for Hunter when she Hunter said. “She wants Ranked 10th in the goes on maternity leave. the team to be successful Minnesota Volleyball “We have a great group and puts everything she Coaches Association’s of returning starters as Class A preseason poll, the well as a passionate group has into making that possible. She is able to of underclassmen,” Hunter read players and the ball said. “We are excited to see to make quick reactions.” how all of these players Another senior will help are going to come together out in the back row with this season.” defensive specialist Kylie The players they’re Winter. Last season, she hoping to replace are led the team with 40 ace setter Karsee Kampsen serves in just 10 games. and middle hitter Karissa “Kylie is a steady Jones. Jones was an Alldefensive player with a Area selection in ‘20 while powerful serve,” Hunter Kampsen was on the Allsaid. “She has a positive Area team in ‘19 and ‘18. attitude and great rapport with her teammates.” Where BBE can feel
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At the net, senior Paige Rupp will patrol the middle after leading BBE with 16 solo blocks. On the outside, junior Ava Mueller returns after recording a team-high .353 hitting percentage. “Paige is great offensively and defensively at the net. She moves around the net to find ways to score,” Hunter said. “Ava has high expectations for herself and the team as a whole. She is constantly working to make improvements in her own game and helping others to improve as well. She is a positive and passionate player and teammate.” Other returning players for the Jaguars include: senior defensive specialist Tayjah Marthaler; senior setter Kailey Fischer; and junior outside hitter Abby Berge. BBE’s season begins on the road on Aug. 31 for a non-conference game against Osakis.
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Joe Brown / West Central Tribune
Joe Brown / West Central Tribune
Paynesville’s Natalie Riley takes a swing at the ball during a Central Minnesota Conference Paynesville’s Kyleigh Tangen hits the ball up on serve-receive during a Central Minnesota match against BBE on Oct. 13, 2020 at Brooten. Conference game against BBE on Oct. 13, 2020 at Brooten.
Paynesville has hope for a good season While the Bulldogs lost some talent, they hope others will step up
6-6 record and will look to improve on that in the upcoming season. The Bulldogs will be without Brynn Johnson, Ashley Osendorff and Brooke Schroeder, three of the team’s top hitters, combining for a total of 169 kills; and Maddi Leyendecker, the team’s BY MATTHEW CURRY assist leader with 198. West Central Tribune Fortunately, Paynesville will be PAYNESVILLE — With four returning starters in 2021, the Paynesville Bulldogs looking to players such as 5-foot-8-inch outside hitting junior Kyleigh Tangen, are preparing themselves for a season who led the team with 109 kills, followed full of competitive volleyball. The Bulldogs ended last season with a by Natalie Riley, a 5-5 senior outside
hitter who was second with 87 kills. Aubrie Stanley, a 5-5 setter, returns for her senior year after ending her junior year second in assists with 148. She led the Bulldogs with 31 service aces. Emma Stanley, a 5-4 junior, is set to improve on a strong sophomore season, having recorded 61 service points with 11 aces last season. Sophomore hitters Emma Flanders and Maddie Frieler are projected to get more playing time as well as senior middle hitter Kaitlyn Grille.
Nicole Humbert returns for her ninth season as the Bulldogs’ head coach and currently holds a record of 95-85 overall. Humbert believes her team has the potential to be a tough opponent throughout the 2021 season. “Our team has a lot of potential and energy coming onto the court this year,” she said. “We are looking forward to playing some fun and intense games this year.” The Bulldogs begin 2021 on Friday, Aug. 27 at an invitational at Howard Lake-Waverly-Winsted.
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Bluejays will build on key returners Molly Mulder, Coco and Maaike Duininck, Sydney Damhof are CMCS’ core BY MATTHEW CURRY West Central Tribune
PRINSBURG — The Central Minnesota Christian Bluejays are preparing for a season of contending volleyball in 2021 with the help of key returning players. CMCS will be without Addison Brower, the Bluejays’ service ace leader last season with 14, and Katelyn Graves, an elite hitter. However, CMCS returns key players that include senior Molly Mulder, the team’s offensive leader who finished the 2020 season with 94 kills and nine aces. “Mulder is a great all-around player in the front row and back row,” CMCS coach Jill Haan said. Senior Coco Duininck will also help lead the Bluejays in 2021, along with Maaike Duininck, who Haan says is a key contributor to the defense. Coco Duininck recorded 1,000 career set assists leading into her junior season and looks to improve on that record in her senior year. “Coco is a phenomenal athlete,” Haan said. “She makes hard plays look easy.” Sydney Damhof returns as the libero. Damhof ended the season with 107 digs, eight aces and four kills. “Damhof is a great defensive player who works hard and sacrifices her body for every ball,” Haan said. “She is giving it 110% all the time.” With the return of key starters, Haan believes the season will be a successful and fun one for players, coaches and fans. “We don’t want any team to count us out,” she said. “We want them to know that CMCS is coming to play them and if they’re going to beat us, they’re going to need to be at the top of their game. “I think the girls have that drive and desire and that competitive nature and I’m just really looking forward to seeing that.” The Bluejays’ season will open on Saturday, Aug. 28 with a tournament at Adrian. The home opener is scheduled for Tuesday, Aug. 31 against Buffalo Lake-Hector-Stewart.
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Photos by Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Central Minnesota Christian junior outside hitter Molly Mulder collects a dig during a Camden Conference match against MACCRAY on Nov. 19, 2020 from the Central Minnesota Christian School gymnasium in Prinsburg.
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Central Minnesota Christian’s Lauren Taatjes goes up for an attack during a Camden Conference match against MACCRAY on Nov. 19, 2020 from the Central Minnesota Christian School gymnasium in Prinsburg.
Central Minnesota Christian’s Coco Duininck delivers a pass during a Camden Conference match against MACCRAY on Nov. 19, 2020 from the Central Minnesota Christian School gymnasium in Prinsburg.
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Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Dawson-Boyd hitter Kate Dahl elevates for a kill attempt against Renville County West during a Camden Conference match on Oct. 3, 2019 from Renville County West High School.
Experience returns for young Blackjacks Dawson-Boyd, led by sophomore Ayiana Hastad, has five starters back BY TOM ELLIOTT
specialist Tarah Johnson is the only senior returning starter. Also back are juniors Kate Dahl and DAWSON — Five returning starters Chelsie Husby. Dahl is an outside hitter. back give Dawson-Boyd head coach Andrea Enger hope that 2021 will be bet- Husby is the Blackjacks’ setter. Sophomore left/middle hitter Ayiana ter than 2020. Hastad and ninth-grader Bailey Bothun, The 2020 Blackjacks went 1-9. This year’s squad is still young. Defensive a left/middle hitter, also returns. West Central Tribune
Enger, in her fourth year as Dawson-Boyd’s head coach, believes Hastad has potential. “Ayiana is a player to watch because she is a young, talented player who can play front and back row,” Enger said. “Last year as a ninth-grader, she led the team in kills (99) and was close to
leading the team in digs (107) as well. “Ayianna works hard on and off the court and is a very encouraging player to her teammates.” Enger’s assistants will be Hailey Gritmacher and Rhonda Olson-Nelson. The Blackjacks open the 2021 season on Thursday, Aug. 26 at Ortonville. They then have their home-opener Tuesday, Aug. 31 against the Murray County Central Rebels.
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Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg junior setter Grace Collins delivers a pass during a Camden Conference match against MACCRAY on Nov. 2, 2020 from MACCRAY High School.
KMS starts fresh with lots of newcomers Fighting Saints, coming off a 7-3 season, hopes to be strong at season’s end BY MATTHEW CURRY West Central Tribune
KERKHOVEN — After losing key seniors, the Kerkhoven-MurdockSunburg Fighting Saints are looking
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forward to somewhat of a rebuilding year in 2021. The Fighting Saints finished the 2020 season with a 7-3 record. They started the season 3-0 before losing three straight matches and finishing the season with a four-match winning streak. Joquel Molenaar returns for her 10th season as head coach of the Fighting Saints. With four juniors and two seniors in the starting positions, Molenaar believes this season will be more focused on a learning experience while holding the potential for postseason success.
“We are rebuilding this year after losing a strong group of seniors who’ve held varsity positions for a number of years,” Molenaar said. “We have a motivated group of girls who have a lot of raw talent. I am excited to see what we are able to accomplish.” Having lost Halie Nichols, Lauren Krieger, Maret Gjerde and Makenna Kelley, the KMS starting lineup will consist of seniors Grace Collins and Karli Jenson. Molenaar describes Collins as a dynamic offensive threat. The junior starters should be Elsa
Gjerde along with Katie Klaphake as middle/outside hitter and Shakira Olson as the outside hitter. Elsa Gjerde will be joined by Josie Gjerde, both players being labeled strong passers by Molenaar. With the majority of the lineup being 5-foot-3, Klaphake is the tallest player standing at 5-8, followed by Olson at 5-7. Molenaar says Olson brings a strong outside presence to KMS. The Fighting Saints begin the year on Tuesday, Sept. 7 at Camden Conference standard-bearer Minneota.
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Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Lac qui Parle Valley outside hitter Tori Bungarden aims for a kill during a Camden Conference match against Kerkhoven-Murdock-Sunburg on Oct. 1, 2019 from KMS High School.
Eagles hope experience equals more wins Lac qui Parle Valley has 10 letterwinners back for 2021 BY JOE BROWN West Central Tribune
MADISON — Off the heels of a 2-7 record in 2020, Lac qui Parle Valley hopes an experienced crop of players can bring the Eagles up in the Camden
Conference standings this fall. A total of 10 players return to the fray for LQPV, including seniors Tori Bungarden, Addy Bonn and Rylee Sawatzky. “We have quite a bit of experience this year having four seniors, and three of them have had varsity experience,” said Eagles head coach Molly Hennen, who enters her fourth season. “It will be a fun season. I am looking forward to it. Hope we can keep improving throughout the season.”
Bungarden and Bonn are outside hitters. In 2020, Bungarden led the Eagles with 97 kills to go with 80 digs and eight blocks. Sawatzky will also be at the net as a middle hitter. A pair of junior starters return in setter Ayanna Gibson and middle hitter Paige Meyer. Making the switch to setter toward the end of last season, Gibson tallied 125 set assists and 63 digs. Meyer had 41 kills and 11 blocks. Also in the rotation for the Eagles are juniors Tayler Kittelson (right-side
hitter/setter) and Sheridan Busse (outside hitter). Sophomores Isabel Gerdes (libero) and Lexi Wollschlager (outside hitter) figure to be in the mix. The Eagles will have to overcome an off-season injury to junior Rylee Lund. An outside hitter/right-side hitter, Lund will miss the season after suffering a knee injury during a summer basketball tournament. LQPV will head to Benson for a nonconference match to kick off the season on Aug. 26.
Best of Luck to all Fall Student-Athletes and Coaches!
WE ARE CHEERING YOU ON!! Benson Public Schools
1400 Montana Ave. Benson, MN 56215 • www.benson.k12.mn.us • 320-843-2710
“Exceptional Opportunities for Every Student’s Success”
VOLLEYBALL 2021
16 | SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 2021
Photos by Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
MACCRAY junior outside hitter Elsie Sumner (9) and sophomore outside hitter Jordan Thein MACCRAY junior defensive specialist JoAnna Johnson collects a dig during a Camden (8) just miss a block attempt during a Camden Conference match against Central Minnesota Conference match against Central Minnesota Christian on Nov. 19, 2020 from the Central Christian on Nov. 19, 2020 from the Central Minnesota Christian School gymnasium in Prinsburg. Minnesota Christian School gymnasium in Prinsburg.
MACCRAY hopes to continue where it left off SOLUTIONS, SERVICE & SUPPORT EST. 1948
Wolverines won their last six matches to end ‘20 season
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West Central Tribune
CLARA CITY — The MACCRAY Wolverines seemed to be heading in the right direction. Then, the end of last season was called off due to the pandemic. Despite losing three starters from last year, MACCRAY hopes
to continue its success this fall. After losing three straight matches to start last season, MACCRAY bounced back to win six straight. Sadly, the Wolverines would never see how long the streak would continue with the season being ended shortly after by COVID-19. Now, with coach Terese Bourne returning for her 19th year of coaching, and the team having six starters returning, MACCRAY hopes to continue
where it left off. “We are looking forward to a normal season,” Bourne said. “We have versatile players that will make for an aggressive front attack.” MACCRAY will be without players Joanna Johnson, Kaisa Jaenisch and Alison Koenen. However, senior starters Kylee Kimpling, Ella Bourne, Elise Sumner and Gabby Randt return. Junior starters Jordan and Sydney Thein also return.
Aside from the starters, Bourne believes seniors Olivia Naatjes, Lizzie Koenen and Hallye Foster, sophomore setter Annie Bourne and eighth-grader Brielle Janssen will be key contributors to the Wolverines. MACCRAY opens the season at 7:15 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 26 against Buffalo Lake-HectorStewart in Clara City. The Wolverines then get a tough test on Thursday, Sept. 2, when they travel to Belgrade-Brooten-Elrosa.
VOLLEYBALL 2021
SATURDAY, AUGUST 28, 2021 | 17
Senior-laden Jaguars look to improve Renville County West has 11 seniors on its roster BY TOM ELLIOTT West Central Tribune
Renville County West junior middle blocker Hannah Pharr elevates on a block attempt against MACCRAY junior middle hitter Kylee Kimpling during a Camden Conference match on Nov. 5, 2020 from MACCRAY High School. Renville County West junior defensive specialist Bethany Bratsch serves during a Camden Conference match against MACCRAY on Nov. 5, 2020 from MACCRAY High School.
Photos by Patrick Bernadeau West Central Tribune
RENVILLE — Optimism abounds at Renville County West. That’s what happens when you have a roster that includes 11 seniors and five returning starters. The Jaguars went through some tough times in 2020, finishing 0-12. But head coach Richard Schrupp likes what he has seen going into the season. “The girls have put in many hours during the offseason and continue to get better,” said Schrupp, who begins his third season with a 27-16 career record. “We look forward to a competitive season and look to be playing our best volleyball at the end of the season. “This will allow us to make a run in the playoffs.” Seniors Hannah Pharr, Addyson Tanner and Alice Hanson lead the way. Pharr is a 6-foot-1 middle blocker who led RCW with 87 kills and 24 solo blocks. She earned All-Camden Conference honors. Tanner is a 5-6 setter who had 179 set assists, 103 digs and a 91.97% serve percentage. Hanson, a 5-6 outside hitter, was second on the team with 56 kills. She also had 38 digs and four solo blocks. Other starters back are junior outside hitter Ellie Wulf and Holly Bratsch, a 5-9 right-side hitter. Wulf had 39 kills and Bratsch had six. Bratsch also had 61 set assists and 65 digs The Jaguars must replace graduated starters Reilly Elfering and Abi Gasca. RCW opens the season Thursday, Sept. 2 against Red Rock Central in Lamberton. GO CARDS!
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VOLLEYBALL 2021
Photos by Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune
Yellow Medicine East’s Ruby Bones goes up for an attack during a Camden Conference match Yellow Medicine East’s Yansi Flores collects a dig during a Camden Conference match against against Minneota on Oct. 29, 2020 from Espeland Gymnasium. Minneota on Oct. 29 from Espeland Gymnasium.
Sting has the experience to improve BEST OF LUCK
to the ACGC Falcons & to the Litchfield Dragons for a winning season! Main Office 1025 E. Frontage Rd. Litchfield, MN 55355 320.693.2821 Atwater Location 16319 Hwy. 12 NE Atwater, MN 56209 320.974.8868 Litchfield Location 511 Polydome Dr. Litchfield, MN 55355 320.693.6014
Six starters return for Yellow Medicine East
hitter, returns as a senior and one of the strongest players on the Sting roster. Flores finished Steffen, who led the Sting with BY MATTHEW CURRY last season with 11 aces, 198 digs 146 kills and 229 digs, and rightand 71 kills. West Central Tribune side hitter Jayden Sakry, one of “(Flores) has consistently GRANITE FALLS — Yellow been near the top of all of our Medicine East brings back a series the team’s ace serve leaders with 10, the Sting have some experience leaderboards,” Johnson said. “She of returners and looks to have a back. Six returning starters are is a six-rotation player who is successful season. expected, including three seniors, strong defensively and reads the Alyssa Johnson will be court well to find ways to score.” returning for her third season as two juniors and a sophomore. Ruby Bones, the 6-foot middle Shelby Mortenson, the 6-foot head coach of the Sting and her hitter, returns for her junior year. right hitter, returns for her senior eighth season overall. She will Bones finished her sophomore be assisted by coaches Makayla year as another offensive target year second in kills with 86. Dyrdahl and Alexis Peters. with 72 kills last season. Despite losing outside hitter Alli Yansi Flores, a 5-10 middle Johnson believes last season
may play a significant role in the upcoming year. “I expect to see many improvements from our varsity team this upcoming season,” she said. “I expect our 2021 team to capitalize on its size this upcoming season. We have quite a bit of height that will be a big weapon for us on the defensive and offensive end.” YME will be in its home gymnasium for the season opener on Thursday, Aug. 26 against the Wabasso Rabbits.
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BOLD
about the Warriors’ chances. “We are very excited From Page 7 to begin our preseason 44 kills, 21 blocks and 78 journey this year,” Kubesh said. “With last year being digs last season. Kubesh my first year with the calls her “one of our program, there were a hardest workers.” lot of adjustments and Visser, also a middle blocker, had 32 kills and 25 uncertainty with COVID. We are hoping to have blocks. “Kenzie is coming amore normal year this off a great freshman year. We have a great season,” Kubesh said. group of returning starters Tersteeg, a setter, and a lot of passion for had 135 set assists, 15 the game. We expect big ace serves and 57 digs. things from this group and “Over the summer, her connections with her hitters believe in them and their abilities full-heartedly.” have only grown,” Kubesh BOLD will hit the said. “We are excited to see Joe Brown / West Central Tribune court for the first time her grow more and more BOLD’s Kilee Elfering tries to hit the ball over a pair of Benson on Tuesday, Aug. 31 at over the upcoming years.” blockers during a West Central Conference match on Oct. 27, Kubesh is optimistic Atwater-Cosmos-Grove City. 2020 in Olivia.
DRAGONS
“Kaity’s an efficient hitter in the middle that hits around blocks well,” From Page 5 the goal of making a deep Swenson said. “JoJo’s a crafty outside hitter that run in the playoffs.” also helps anchor the Litchfield returns one starter in 5-foot-11 junior defense. Addi’s a scrappy defender that flies around right-side hitter the court.” Greta Hansen. Olivia Holmgren, a “(Greta’s) a tall, athletic 5-2 junior, will assume lefty on the right side looking to have a breakout the setter role. Another junior, 6-footer Isabelle year,” Swenson said. A trio of seniors will look Pennertz, will serve as a middle hitter. to find their footing with “Olivia brings the expanded roles in 2021. energy and sets the At middle hitter will be 5-11 Kaity Kusler (25 kills, tone for the game,” Swenson said. “Isabelle’s 8 blocks in 2020). JoJo Schultz, at 5-6, will occupy a powerful attacker that hits a heavy ball.” a spot at outside hitter, Patrick Bernadeau / West Central Tribune The Dragons’ first and 5-4 defensive specialist Litchfield junior middle hitter Kaity Kusler eyes an attack Addi Marquardt (101 digs) match is set for Aug. 31 at during Monday, Nov. 16, 2020 Wright County Conference will patrol the back row. home against Montevideo. match against Watertown-Mayer from Litchfield High School.
GOOD LUCK s
tudent s C G C A e th ll A to l year! o o h c s g in m o c is th
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VOLLEYBALL 2021
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